Tulsi Samman conferred on Bajpayee

Bhojpur

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Updated: Feb 16, 2007 22:56 IST

THE THREE-DAY Bhojpur Utsava started with the felicitation of famous Aalha singer Lallu Bajpayee with National Tulsi Samman 2006-2007 on Thursday.

At a very colourful function held in front of the famous Bhojpur Temple of Lord Shiva on the eve of Mahashivaratri, Culture Department Secretary Pankaj Raag presented the Samman to the Bajpayee. The award, which carries a cash component of Rs 1 lakh and a citation, has been conferred on Bajpayee for his major contribution in the field of traditional folk art.

Arun Bhatt, Collector of Raisen district, read out the citation of award. On this occasion Bajpayee, who belongs to Unnao district of Uttar Pradesh, expressed his gratitude towards the State Government for the honour and said that the award was actually the honour of traditional art of the country.

The folk artiste, who spoke in the Awadhi dialect, said that Aalha songs are the songs of bravery and courage. Lallu Bajpayee alias Chandranath Vajpayee is singing Aalha songs from the young age of 15. Currently, he is the chairman of Uttar Pradesh Aalha Academy.

Later, a large number of people enjoyed the bhajans and light music rendered by noted playback singer Hemlata. She was here to perform in Bhojpur Utsava. Audience were thrilled when Hemlata recited the very popular song “Bhola Nai Mane, Nai Mane”.

On the second day of festival, Odisi dancer Raminder Khurana of Mumbai and Kathak dancer Dr Chetna Jyotisi of Varanasi will give their performance. Sharma brothers of Ujjain will also recite the Bhajans on the same day scheduled at 7:30 pm.